IDC funds medical centre

The IDC has provided R8 million to fund the Cosmo City Medical Centre in Cosmo City, an area that is seen as a national symbol of mixed development in Johannesburg.

The funding was provided through the IDC’s Township and Rural Hospital Scheme, which aims to develop independent black-owned and managed hospitals and clinics, serving lower income and previously disadvantaged clients.

The clinic was officially opened on January 26, 2010 by the Honourable Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, who also delivered the keynote address.

This facility could not have come at a better time since government is renewing its efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS and improving the health care system in general.

Minister Motsoaledi expressed full support of the relationship between the IDC and the private doctors which resulted in the building of the new clinic in an area which requires a full “human settlement” solution, including education, healthcare and retail facilities.

“I will be running a ‘military precision’ campaign which will involve all health organisations, private or public, to prevent illnesses, and promote and deliver the best health services for the people,” he said.

Zora Madikizela, Head of the IDC’s Healthcare Strategic Business Unit revealed that the medical centre will provide Cosmo City’s population - an estimated 50 000 people - with services that are accessible, within walking distance, and holistic in terms of providing all aspects of primary healthcare.

“This facility could not have come at a better time since government is renewing its efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS and improving the health care system in general,” Madikizela said. 

“We are supporting the government in these initiatives especially because health features prominently in government’s priorities for the next five years. The IDC is looking at funding similar projects in some other parts of the country especially in rural areas and townships,” she said.

Health minister officially opens medical centre with the IDC and the directors of Cosmo City Clinics (Pty) Ltd. From left, Dr Meshack Mobokota, Ms Zora Madikizela of IDC, Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, Dr Norman Mabasa and Dr Johan Botha.

One of the founding directors of the Cosmo City Medical Centre Dr Meshack Mbokota said that although private, the new medical centre will be affordable for the Cosmo City residents.

“The prices that people pay for consultations are similar to what people pay in township clinics. People will not have to travel long distances to get proper health services,” said Mbokota.

The new facility boasts a pharmacy, optometrist and dentist.